The tropical town of Punta Cana, in the Dominican Republic, is somewhere many consider to be as close to a paradise on earth as possible.
The bright turquoise seas and white sandy beaches line the coast, and with many resorts on offer, you can enjoy a relaxing holiday away from the chaos of everyday life.
Lounge On Macao Beach
You will have your pick of beaches in Punta Cana, but we think that the cream of the crop has to be Macao Beach with its turquoise water and white sandy shores.
It is a public beach, so there is no resort development or major infrastructure, making it feel more secluded and natural. You can spend hours lying on the beach and swimming in the ocean.
Take A Catamaran Tour
When visiting the Dominican Republic you will want to explore the surrounding waters and there is no better way to do this than with a catamaran trip.
These boat rides are often offered as a day trip that can take you out to notable sights, include lunch, and show you around the region from the water.
Enjoy Scape Park
For a day of fun-filled activity that is still firmly situated in stunning nature in Punta Cana, you must visit Scape Park.
With mysterious caves to explore, ziplining above the trees, incredible wildlife to see and more, there is plenty to do here.
Our favorite spot is Hoyo Azul, which is a natural sinkhole that has become a pool of bright blue, crystal-clear water that you can dive into.
Explore Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park & Reserve
You can never get enough of the natural landscapes of Punta Cana, and the Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park & Reserve is another wonderful opportunity to explore this.
There are several natural blue lagoons located in between the large green trees, which you can access using walking or hiking trails. There is also a host of fascinating wildlife and plant life to admire along the way.
Visit Saona Island
Not far off from Punta Cana lies Saona Island, a little slice of paradise that can be accessed by boat, most commonly as part of a day trip or excursion.
The picturesque island is known for its untouched beaches, tropical plant life, and incredible diving/snorkeling spots. Our favorite part of the island is how quiet it is, making you feel like you have stumbled upon an undiscovered gem.
Dive Into Dolphin Island
To get up and close to some of the most-loved animals in the ocean, visit Dolphin Island Park for unforgettable experiences.
You can swim with dolphins in the offshore area, which makes for a lasting memory. If you are feeling especially adventurous, we suggest you try out snorkeling among sharks and stingrays. It’s a short but adrenaline-filled experience!
TravelTo Altos De Chavon
For a unique day trip, you can visit Altos de Chavon, a Mediterranean-style village set up just a short distance outside of Punta Cana.
It is a replica of a 16th-century village, with art studios, boutique shops, restaurants, and museums that are all set within the cobble-stoned streets and Mediterranean buildings. There are also resorts around here, so you can stay a night or two if you want to spend more time in the area.
Explore The Paradise Of Punta Cana
Punta Cana may be best known for its beaches and resorts (and rightfully so), but the natural landscapes and vast forestry are part of why you will want to return over and over again.
To properly explore all that the region has to offer you need at least a week, and you will leave feeling more relaxed and at peace than ever before.
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